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Blood Fats (Lipids)
Blood is taken to test the level of fats (lipids). Occasionally your doctor may ask you to attend clinic ‘fasting’ for
this particular test.
Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) can also occur in people with Type 1 diabetes. The level of fats in a
‘fasting’ sample of your blood gives an indication of your risk for developing arteriosclerosis and heart disease.
Normal ranges for lipids:
Total Cholesterol
below 5 mmol/l
High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) over 1.1 mmol/l
Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) below 3 mmol/l
Triglycerides
below 2.3 mmol/l
Total cholesterol / HDL ratio below 4
My results:
HDL has a protective effect, while LDL and Triglycerides have a damaging effect and may increase your risk of
developing heart disease. Your lipid levels can sometimes be raised due to genetic (inherited) reasons. However,
making different food choices can help. Physical activity can also increase HDL levels as well as promote a
healthy body weight, which also has a beneficial effect of the heart.
Food choices should include:
✔✔One portion of oily fish per week (salmon, mackerel, herring, kippers and sardines)
✔✔At least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables per day
✔✔Monounsaturated fat (eg olive oil, rapeseed oil) instead of saturated fat
(eg butter, biscuits, cakes, pastry, cheese and fatty meat)
Medication, such as ‘statins’ (eg Simvastatin, Atorvastatin) or ‘fibrates’, may be prescribed by your doctor, you
can discuss this with your diabetes team.
Smoking
Your doctor or nurse should, as part of your annual review, ask you if you smoke.
Smoking can have a damaging affect on the blood vessels. It is even more important for someone with diabetes
to give up smoking than for someone without diabetes, because smoking further increases the risk of poor
circulation. There are many ways to do this including nicotine replacement, tablets and self-help groups that
can make it easier to quit. If you would like further information about quitting smoking, you can speak to your
pharmacist, GP, practice nurse or a member of your diabetes team.
Weight
Your weight (and height) will be checked at your diabetes clinic appointment.
Maintaining a healthy weight for your height is important in reducing your risks of developing heart disease and
some types of cancers. Your dietitian will be able to offer further advice if required.
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